First Reconciliation
We welcome all our families preparing for their child’s First Reconciliation.
Pope Francis describes the Sacrament of Reconciliation as a Sacrament of Healing. He says, “When I go to confession, it is in order to be healed, to heal my soul, to heal my heart and to be healed of some wrongdoing.” He explains that “Each time we go to confession, God embraces us. God rejoices!”
Sin is a rejection of our truest identity as children of God made in God's the image and likeness. Sin is choosing our own imperfect will over the Divine Will that leads to the perfect freedom and happiness.
The sacrament of Reconciliation respects our freedom as human beings to change our hearts. Our own desire to return to God and to walk faithfully in the way of Jesus, is the beginning of repentance. This desire in us begins with God's loving desire for us.
This sacrament gives us the opportunity to reconcile, or to make peace, with God, our neighbor, ourselves, and our whole community. It goes beyond just "telling" our sins to a priest. It includes an opportunity to seek advice as to how to grow as one of Jesus' disciples by making better choices. It helps us to grow in our spiritual life. The priest imparts God's absolution in the name of Jesus Christ. The priest is never a judge, there to condemn sinners.
What is the date for First Reconciliation?
First Reconciliation will be held on Tuesday April 8, 2025 at 5:00PM at St. Thomas More.
When is the rehearsal for First Reconciliation?
The mandatory rehearsal for First Reconciliation will be held on Tuesday, April 1 at 5:00PM at St. Thomas More.
How long will First Reconciliation last?
Children may leave after they have gone to confession. The entire ceremony should be one hour.
Can parents go to Confession at the First Reconciliation service?
Unfortunately, due to the large number of students who are receiving First Reconciliation, we would ask that parents do not go to confession that night.
What is the dress code for First Reconciliation?
Children should wear clothing that is respectful and appropriate for Church. We ask that the children refrain from wearing sports uniforms, sweats, shorts, tee-shirts or anything with inappropriate images or product logos, etc.
Is First Reconciliation mandatory before First Communion?
Yes. The Catechism of the Catholic Church states: “Children must go to the sacrament of penance before receiving Holy Communion for the first time” (1457). This is backed up by the Code of Canon Law 914.
Is there a step by step guide for going to confession?
The following is a step by step guide for going to Confession. It is a good idea to practice this with your child before their First Reconciliation:
While making the sign of the Cross, the child begins by saying:
Bless me Father, for I have sinned. This is my first confession. Father, I (here you may tell Father your sins.) Please help your child understand that s/he should not bring a "laundry" list of misdeeds to confession. Instead, work with your child to present behaviors or tendencies - illustrated by specific words, choices or actions - that may have caused harm to others or failed to relieve another's pain.Priest says: For your penance...
(example: Say one Our Father, or Help your parents today)Child says: Act of Contrition:
My God, I am sorry for my sins with all my heart. In choosing to do wrong and failing to do good, I have sinned against you whom I should love above all things. I firmly intend, with your help, to do penance, to sin no more, and to avoid whatever leads me to sin. Our Savior Jesus Christ suffered and died for us. In his name, my God, have mercy.Raising his hand over your head, Priest says:
I absolve you of your sins, in the name of the Father and the Son, and the Holy Spirit. God bless you.Child says: Amen. Thank you, Father
Is there an examination of conscience for children?
Children can prayerfully reflect on the following questions to examine their conscience toprepare for Confession:
Do I love God as I should?
Do I remember to pray every day?
Do I thank God for all he has done for me?
Do I show my love for God by helping others?
Do I keep Sunday holy by going to Mass?
Do I listen carefully at Mass?
Do I behave as I should in Church (God’s house)?
Do I always talk nicely to my parents?
Do I do what my parents ask me to do?
Do I help with chores without complaining?
Do I obey my parents?
Do I obey rules at school and public places?
Do I treat others with love and kindness?
Do I ever hurt others by calling them names?
Do I fight with others?
Do I always tell the truth?
Do I ever make promises that I do not keep?
Do I ever cheat on tests or schoolwork?
Do I take things that do not belong to me?
Do I refuse to share my things with others?
Do I treat other people’s things with respect and care?
Is there a video I can watch with my child to prepare them for the Sacrament of Reconciliation?
The following 12 minute video is available on www.formed.org and would be great to watch with your child: How to Make A Great Confession
To set up a free FORMED account take the following steps:
1. Visit www.formed.org
2. Click the menu option: Find Your Parish Subscription
3. In the section asking to find your Parish or Organization, type the zip code: 07726
4. Select "St. Thomas More" as your parish and hit "next"
5. Enter your name and email address and hit sign in.
6. You will use this email address to log into Formed in the future.